The El Paso Zoo is constructing a one-of-a-kind venue inside the existing African savannah exhibit. The Zoo is installing the five-layer exterior tent system of the Zoo’s multifunctional event pavilion Tuesday, April 19, 2016. After the tent goes up, this 2012 Quality of Life Bond project will be 60 percent complete. The event tent is scheduled to open fall 2016.

The multifunctional event tent pavilion will offer a dining and dancing area within an animal exhibit! The open air concept will immerse zoo guests in an African Lodge experience as they gaze out the window walls overlooking the zebras. With 180-degree views into the Zoo’s expansive African savannah, guests can also enjoy watching with lions, giraffes, water fowl and other African species.

The event tent will be able to host plated dinners for 300 guests for a sit-down elegant night of dinners and dancing or 575 spectators for theater-style seating. Additional features include a public art installation, an outdoor cocktail and reception area, and an outdoor deck overlooking the savannah wetlands.